Exploring This Fairytale City of Strasbourg in One Day
I was not disappointed when I arrived in Strasbourg! It is one of those fairytale towns in France that you absolutely must visit and I’m so glad I did!
On a recent road trip, we drove from Germany to France and made a stop in this magical city for the night. I had already heard that Strasbourg is famous for its charming timbered houses, canals, and blend of French and German culture, but walking through the old town, I instantly fell in love with its unique beauty and historical significance. It was one of those “better in real life” experiences!
The city’s Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most impressive Gothic Cathedrals in Europe and exploring the Alsace region was like stepping into a storybook. I wished I had more than one day to explore, but even on a short trip, I managed to see so many incredible sights, from Petite France to the European Parliament. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of one day in Strasbourg.
⏰ Short on time?
🗺️ Here are the top 5 things to do in Strasbourg in one day
- Strasbourg Cathedral & Astronomical Clock
- Wander through La Petite France
- Visit the Palais Rohan museums
- Enjoy views from Barrage Vauban
- Stroll through Place Kléber
🍽️ Don’t miss: Try Alsatian food on a walking tour!
💡 Pro Tip: Stay at Hotel des Vosges BW Premier Collection for a convenient stay near the main attractions.
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Getting to Strasbourg
Strasbourg is well connected and easy to get to, whether you’re coming from Paris, Germany, or other parts of France. Here are a few ways to reach the city.
By Train
High-speed trains run regularly from Paris to Strasbourg, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The train station is conveniently located in the city centre.
By Car
Driving is a scenic option, especially if you’re planning to explore the Alsace Wine Route or take a day trip from nearby cities.
By Plane
Strasbourg International Airport (SXB) offers flights from several European cities, making it an easy destination to reach from abroad.
What to Do in Strasbourg in One Day
With just one day in Strasbourg, you can still cover a lot of ground if you plan your itinerary carefully. I found the city very walkable to see the main sights, especially. Here are the must-see sights and top activities to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Strasbourg Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock
Start your day at the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its soaring spires and detailed Gothic façade are breathtaking. Inside, you’ll find the impressive astronomical clock, a marvel of medieval engineering. Be sure to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city centre.
Palais Rohan and Museums
If you’re a history or art lover, don’t miss the Palais Rohan, which houses several important museums: the Alsatian Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Decorative Arts. These museums give you a deep dive into the cultural heritage of the Alsace region.
Barrage Vauban
For stunning views of Strasbourg, visit the Barrage Vauban. This historical dam offers panoramic views of the old town and the Strasbourg Cathedral. It’s an underrated spot that provides a unique perspective of the city.
La Petite France
Wander through the picturesque neighbourhood of La Petite France. This part of the old town is full of charming timbered houses and narrow streets lining the canals. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, taking in the beauty of Strasbourg and stopping for photos. If you’re visiting in winter, this area comes alive with the famous Christmas markets—some of the best in Europe. We also chose to have lunch and dinner in this area so we could enjoy the beautiful buildings while we dined.
Place Kléber
Head to Place Kléber, the main square in Strasbourg’s city centre. It’s a lively place filled with cafés, shops, and during the winter season, one of the largest Christmas markets in France. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, and soak up the local vibe.
Take a Traditional Alsatian Food Tour
No visit to Strasbourg would be complete without sampling some Alsatian food. Join a Traditional Food Walking Tour to taste local specialties like tarte flambée, kouglof, and Alsace wine. It’s a delicious way to experience the local culture while exploring the city’s best food spots.
Walking Tour of Strasbourg
If you prefer a more historical approach, consider joining a Strasbourg Walking Tour. A knowledgeable guide will take you through the city centre, sharing fascinating stories about Strasbourg and its unique position between France and Germany.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
If you’re staying overnight, Strasbourg has plenty of great hotel options for every type of traveller.
For Couples: Stay in La Petite France for a romantic getaway. The beautiful canals and charming streets make it the perfect spot for couples.
For Families: The area around Place Kléber is great for families, offering larger accommodations close to the main sights and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.
For Budget Travelers: The neighbourhoods near the train station offer affordable accommodations that are still within walking distance of the city centre.
TIP: While we were in Strasbourg, we stayed at Hotel des Vosges BW Premier Collection, which was just on the outskirts of Le Petite France, and loved it!
Extra Time? Day Trips and Tours From Strasbourg
If you have more than one day in Strasbourg, consider taking a day trip to explore the surrounding Alsace region. Here are a few great options.
Highlights of Alsace Day Trip: This full-day tour takes you through the most picturesque villages in Alsace, including Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and the charming town of Colmar. You’ll also enjoy wine tastings along the Alsace Wine Route.
Haut-Rhin Wine Route Day Trip: This full-day tour takes you through the Haut-Rhin Wine Route, where you’ll visit several vineyards and sample local Alsace wines. It’s perfect for wine lovers looking to dive deep into the flavours of the region.
Alsace Half-Day Wine Tour: If you’re short on time, this half-day tour takes you to two local wineries where you can taste some of the region’s best Alsace wines.
👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting Alsace make sure to check out How to see Colmar in One Day – Itinerary, Photos Things to Do next.
FAQ About Strasbourg in One Day
Is one day in Strasbourg enough?
Yes, you can definitely see the main highlights of Strasbourg in one day, especially if you follow a well-planned Strasbourg itinerary.
How to see Strasbourg in a day?
Start at the Strasbourg Cathedral, then explore La Petite France and the Alsatian Museum, followed by a walk through Place Kléber and a visit to Barrage Vauban.
Is Colmar nicer than Strasbourg?
Both are beautiful! Colmar is smaller and more quaint, while Strasbourg is larger and has more to see, including the European Parliament.
How long do you need to see Strasbourg?
You can see the key sights in about 6-8 hours, but if you want to explore more of the Alsace region, staying for 2-3 days is ideal.
Can you see Strasbourg in one day?
Yes, with careful planning and a good mix of walking and tours, you can experience Strasbourg in one day.
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